A generator owner gave the internet a useful lesson in emergency preparedness after sharing on Reddit that a portable unit they bought in 2008 kept working through years of near-total neglect — including 12 days without stopping.
The owner jokingly credited their maintenance routine: "My only maintenance has been to kiss the top of her, thank her for her service and drag her back into the shed."
Here's what to know
According to the Reddit user, the generator has been used "twice/thrice a year" since it was bought during a 2008 power outage that flooded the basement, and it ran for "12 solid days with not a single second break."
Now, the owner is questioning whether servicing it now might backfire, similar to how some older cars are said to react badly to engine flushes. The generator had never had its oil, spark plug, or air filter changed and was always stored with gas left in it.
Early suggestions included an oil change, a replacement spark plug, and fuel treatment before storage, with another user adding that the air filter should also be cleaned.
Where can I learn more?
A lot of the advice came back to the same basic question: When a machine has gone this long without upkeep, what's actually worth touching? The articles below cover similar questions about generators and other household appliances, including fuel storage, airflow concerns, and routine habits that can affect performance and safety.
TCD Picks » Quince Spotlight
💡These best-sellers from Quince deliver affordable, sustainable luxury for all
• Some generator owners questioned whether noise-reducing "zombie boxes" risk airflow problems and warranty headaches.
• One homeowner found an EV offered emergency power backup during hurricanes without running a generator.
• A home maintenance expert said cleaning the dryer vent can keep appliances running better.
• Property owners said cold-cycle washing habits could help extend appliance life over time.
• An appliance expert warned removing microwave door glass could create serious safety problems.
If you're deciding whether to finally change the oil on an old generator, the main takeaway is pretty simple: routine maintenance still counts. A little practical know-how can go a long way toward keeping backup equipment reliable and avoiding preventable wear.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
